Rudolph Matas School

Academically this school is pretty good. The only set backs are as follows: 1. The principal lacks professionalism. She does not own up to her responsibilities as a principal, does not address issues, and there is a huge empathy chip missing. She is very one sided, and never researches complaints when filed. She always assumes that her staff (including herself) is always right. 2. Safety & security are a big issue. The gates and building doors are left open all day during school hours. I have walked down halls and areas that should be secured, & not once was I ever approached or questioned about who I was or what I was doing there.
--Submitted by a parent

The principal Ms. Helmstetter is the worst principal I have ever dealt with. She does not care about the students. She speaks about private matters to parents or students while there are other people around and makes them emabressed! She has family working on the school board that help her out when a problem about her gets reported which will make your child's school life horrible if you try to go to the school board about a problem you have with her. She has gotten help from her family on the school board to drop kids whose parents reported a problem with her. The office staff is also clueless if you have a question about the school or curriculum. They will make excuses not to give you a tour if you want one. One of the ladies in the office told me why do I want to go on a tour so bad? She told me the classrooms are just rooms with desks and why do I need to see them. I could not believe she had the nerve to talk to me that way! Do not send your kids here, you will regret it. The principal should be fired and the office staff should be more informed to answer questions parents may have and learn some respect.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 kids that go to this school. One is in pre-k and the other is in 5th. The teachers have been awesome in every grade. The office staff is very personable which i love. The extracurricular activities have exceeded my expectations. They have drama, art, band, accelerated Reader program and GT just to name a few. I think you would like sending your child here. My daughter learns alot and continues to be challenged.
--Submitted by a parent

My son went to this school since 2ed grade and now he is in 5th grade . The teachers are the best and the staff is great to. The principle does a wonderful job of keeping the school top on the list of great schools. They just add band to the list activities and my son loves it . This will perpare him for middle and high school band. I was so afraid that the leap test would be a nighmare but Matas teachers help my son and other kids in perparing them for the leap that my son exaully said it was easy and he pass . We will miss Matas when we leave . My hat goes off the the teachers staff and Pricipale.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been doing very well here and the teachers take time for those who need additional time. I am very pleased with the school and the staff.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has attended Matas for 2 years now. I think that if your child is not an honor roll student with perfect behavior look out for the principal! It's really sad because my child is starting to hate going to school. He feels like it is a chore and hid self esteem is almost non-existant. I am looking at private school's for next year, its a shame that I have to pay for my child to attend school so that I dont have to worry that he will be left out of activities.
--Submitted by a parent

I have two children at Matas. My oldest is in the 3rd grade and has been attending since Kindergarten. Matas has great knowledgable teachers and staff! The school has recently announced they will become a 21st Century School - which means afterscool programs soon. Every year they have strived to implement some reward system for the children, this year is the best so far. They have available before and after-care. The Pto is very involved and they are not pushy - they would rather have a little from everyone, than all of one persons time. As far as the principal, seems she has become more friendly as the years go by - possibly pleased with the schools advancement... Great School!
--Submitted by a parent

This is my son's first year at this school. I cannot say enough good things about it. The teachers and staff are very involved with all of the children. It is obvious that they care. This school has provided the healthy environment my son has needed to thrive. I love this school!
--Submitted by a parent

This school has always supported all the students. Each year they have included new programs and new ideas to better address our students' needs, from the highest to the lowest. I have found the present administration to be one of the most congenial and caring when dealing with both parents and students. They offer all students opportunities to participate in extra curricular activities without exception.
--Submitted by a parent

principle is worried about numbers and not quality of education. used to be a great school-all around. Teachers are nice, can be better.
--Submitted by a parent